This village in the Val d'Anniviers was the home of the famous explorer and writer Ella Maillart until her death. A permanent exhibition is dedicated to her in an old chapel in the heart of the old village.

Born in Geneva in 1903, Ella Maillart was a sportswoman, explorer, adventurer, navigator, photographer, journalist and writer. Her many peregrinations throughout Asia inspired her to write fascinating travel accounts.

After the Second World War, she settled in Chandolin and built a chalet where she spent 6 months a year until her death in 1997. She is considered one of the greatest travellers of the 20th century, and the Espace Ella Maillart, located in the former Sainte-Barbe chapel, traces her life and work.

In winter, Chandolin becomes a ski resort linked to the Saint-Luc resort to form a ski area comprising 12 ski facilities (ski lifts, chairlifts, funicular) and 65 kilometres of pistes.

When you arrive in the village, it's this very touristy aspect that strikes (and disappoints) you. To fall under its spell, you have to go to the old village, which lies just a few hundred metres away, below the main road.

This is where you'll find the Espace Ella Maillart, which you can visit by asking for the entrance code at the Tourist Office, just a few dozen metres from the postbus stop.

Useful links

Swiss Canton of Valais (iSwitzerland Guide) - Wikipedia